A NORTH-EAST theatre gets in the festive mood today with the opening of its Christmas pantomime.

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs opens at Durham's Gala Theatre, today at 2pm and will run until Saturday, January 8.

It is the theatre's second pantomime since it opened just under three years ago and tickets are selling well with few left for some performances.

The show stars Gabrielle Bradshaw, host of Channel 5's Havakazoo, who plays Wicked Queen Grizelda, Paul Hartley and Pee Wee Price, who were in last year's pantomime Cinderella.

Paul plays The Royal Tax Collector and comedian Pee Wee is Muddles the Court Jester.

Snow White is played by Anna Flowers, a graduate of the Italia Conti Stage School, in London.

Producer David Lee, who has composed original songs for the production, has worked on more than 130 pantomimes but says this is his favourite.

He said: "The show will be superb family entertainment encompassing a talented professional cast, beautiful costumes, fabulous scenery and lots of fun.''

Tickets cost £12.50 for adults and £9.50 for children. Various discounts are available.

For details and bookings, call the box office on 0191-332 4041.

Published: 04/12/2004